INDIANAPOLIS – During this time of year they’re easy to spot along county roads, especially near communities or developments. To the casual observer, they add color and interest to southern Indiana’s roadsides and forests, but they are an invasive threat that few people are aware of until it’s too late. Bush honeysuckle have bright-red berries and their leaves are yellow and bright. They thrive almost anywhere and grow quickly and in low light, traits that made them a popular landscaping and hedge bush.

SANTA CLAUS – A retired educator concerned about challenges facing education and the state’s working class is seeking to represent Perry County in the Indiana House of Representatives.

Mike Schriefer of Santa Claus is running as a Democratic candidate for the District 74 seat now held by Republican Sue Ellspermann. The Ferdinand Republican is in her first term and is expected to seek re-election in 2012.

TELL CITY – Christmas will soon be here but will all the stockings be filled? That’s a question United Way of Perry County’s Holiday Helpers United partners are working hard to provide a “yes” answer to. But volunteers need your help, said Rebecca Fenn, director of United Way of Perry County and one of the organizers of the Holiday Helpers program that reaches out to hundreds of children each year.

CANNELTON – The Cannelton School Board accepted the retirements of Elementary Principal Ginger Conrad and teacher Penny Hardman in a special meeting Monday. They also named counseling director Dan Freed interim principal for the city’s high school.

Both retirements will be effective at the end of the current school year.